Reed’s Bill to Rename Indiana County Bridge in Honor of Local Vietnam Veteran Signed into Law

7/8/2017

HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by House Majority Leader Dave Reed (R-Indiana) to rename an Indiana County bridge in honor of a local Vietnam War veteran has been signed into law by Gov. Tom Wolf as Act 18 of 2017.

The new law designates the Diamondville Bridge, along State Route 1012 in Cherryhill Township, as the Sgt. Robert Eugene Goodlin Memorial Bridge.

“After Mr. Goodlin passed away last year, American Legion Post 222 and the Cherryhill Township supervisors suggested that we name the bridge in his memory,” said Reed. “I agreed, and am proud the bill is now law as a fitting tribute to his life and service to our nation.”

“Robert Eugene Goodlin was a warrior and we believe our warriors should be recognized,” said Dan Rice, American Legion Post 222 adjutant. “We are grateful to Rep. Reed and members of the General Assembly for feeling the same way and supporting this legislation.”

Goodlin grew up in Commodore and graduated from Purchase Line High School. During the Vietnam War he served in the United States Army as a sergeant with Company B, 2nd Battalion, 50th Infantry, 2nd Armored Division. Among his decorations, Goodlin was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze service stars.

“I am pleased that our colleagues approved Rep. Reed’s bill to rename this bridge in recognition of Sgt. Goodlin’s honorable service to our nation,” said Sen. Don White (R-41), sponsor of a companion bill (Senate Bill 614) in the Senate. “This bridge should serve as a lasting reminder of the dedication and fidelity of this local hero.”

The legislation calls for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to erect and maintain signs displaying the name of the bridge at both ends of the span.